By Michaiah Varnes
FREDERICK, Md. — Hood College hosted its annual On-Campus Employment Workshop on Aug. 27 at the Career Center for international students on F-1 visas seeking campus jobs.
The workshop, held twice a year at the start of the fall and spring semesters, drew 16 international students. Five of them, already employed on campus, shared their experiences and offered advice on job searches.
The event was led by Amani Al-Dajane, director of International Student Services; Maura Page, assistant director of employer relations at the Career Center; and Tamsyn Evezard, graduate assistant for International Student Services.
The presentation covered where and how to secure campus employment, which is the best option for F-1 students since it does not require additional authorization from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Students are permitted to work up to 20 hours a week during the semester and full-time during official breaks.
Hiring departments on campus were highlighted as the first step in the process. Opportunities include Blazer Food Service and catering, Aramark facilities, the Gear Shop, the athletics department, the aquatics center, graduate and teaching assistant positions, institutional advancement and student engagement, which offers a paid peer mentorship program.
The event was created in response to student feedback in fall 2023. Faculty explained three main application paths: Aramark dining and facilities, the Gear Shop and graduate assistant roles.
Faculty also warned students about employment scams.
“It is not just about earning money; it is a valuable pathway for students to feel part of the Hood community,” Al-Dajane said.
Students were advised to watch for red flags such as offers that seem too good to be true or requests for personal information or money.
The workshop also included instructions on how to apply for a Social Security card.
At the conclusion, five international students joined a Q&A session to share their perspectives. They emphasized the importance of getting involved on campus, attending events, connecting with faculty and staff, and being proactive and persistent.
Several also highlighted the role of the Career Center in helping them succeed. They credited the center with providing resume and cover letter support, interview tips, and other resources that contributed to their employment opportunities.
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